UK biggest phone network created as Three-Vodafone merger gets conditional approval

The competition watchdog has approved the creation of the UK's biggest phone network by allowing the merger of Three and Vodafone.

Regulator the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) issued the decision despite previously saying tens of millions could pay more as a result of the amalgamation.

CMA approval is contingent on the new entity spending billions to improve 5G internet services across the network, it said.

Legally binding targets have been set out for the combined Vodafone and Three to meet.

Both the CMA and communications regulator will enforce these, with annual progress reports being submitted by Vodafone and Three.

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